Gretchen Keay
Psychotherapist
Introduction
About me
I came to psychology later in life, after spending many years supporting people through difficult times. I’ve worked with Samaritans, drug and alcohol outreach services in South London, and a mental health charity in Brussels. I’ve always been fascinated by what makes us human—how we connect with ourselves and with others, and how we grow through life’s challenges.
I believe we all need support at some point in our lives, and I see it as a true privilege to walk alongside someone during those moments.
I hold two master’s degrees in psychology and psychological therapy. My training is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that helps you understand the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. I tailor each session to your individual needs, so therapy feels right for you—at your pace, and in a way that works for your goals.
Clients often describe me as compassionate, thoughtful, and grounded. I work with adults facing a range of issues, including anxiety, low mood, grief, burnout, and major life transitions.
Alongside my private practice, I also volunteer as an Honorary Psychologist for The Loss Foundation, supporting people who have lost someone to cancer. I’m a member of the British Psychological Society and the BABCP (the UK’s CBT professional body), and I continue to grow through regular training and clinical supervision.
How it works
Includes tax & admin fee
Free 15-minute intro call
Not sure if it's the right fit? A chance to explore how we can work together before making any decisions.
Focus areas
What I help with
My approach
What it's like to work with me
In our first session, we’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy and what you’d like to change or understand better. I’ll also explain how CBT works so you can decide if it feels like the right fit for you.
As we continue, we’ll regularly check in on how things are going—what’s helping, what’s shifting, and where we might adjust the approach. I use simple, evidence-based tools to track progress so we stay on course together.
Between sessions, I often suggest gentle reflections or small actions to try in daily life. CBT is an active, collaborative process, and doing small bits of work between sessions can really help build momentum and deepen your insight. But we always go at your pace, and you’re never expected to do more than you feel ready for.
Therapeutic approaches
Personal
Beyond therapy
Why I love being a therapist
I recognise the profound privilege and value in supporting others to reduce psychological distress and work toward positive change. I firmly believe that we all need support at some point in our lives, and that through therapy, new learning can help ease suffering and bring relief. Sitting alongside someone during a difficult time, offering space, time, and understanding is an honour. Together, we create an environment where insight, healing, and change can happen.
My interests & joys
I enjoy being outdoors—hiking, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
Background
Professional experience
NHS-trained Clinical Associate in Applied Psychology (CAAP) with a strong foundation in delivering evidence-based interventions, including CBT and group therapies, for mild to moderate psychological concerns in primary care. Gretchen brings a diverse background in outreach, project management, and education, having worked with vulnerable and underserved populations affected by substance misuse and mental health challenges. Her experience spans the NHS, third sector organisations, and international education, contributing to her compassionate, culturally aware, and person-centred approach to therapy.
Training
Credentials
- BPS (British Psychological Society) – Graduate Member
- BABCP (British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies) – Member
Studies
Educational background
MSc in Psychological Therapies in Primary Care – Universities of Dundee & Stirling, UK (January 2025)
MSc in Applied Psychology (Distinction) – Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, UK (November 2021)
BA in Asian Studies & Environmental Studies – Hobart and William Smith Colleges, USA (June 1998)
NVQ Level 4 Health and Social Care – Obtained